Rolen really not an option

All-Star wouldn't have reversed Cubs' season

General manager Jim Hendry didn't spend Tuesday cursing about the Cubs' inability to land All-Star third baseman Scott Rolen.

As Hendry sees it, the Cubs never were in position to acquire Rolen for one simple reason: They are miles from the playoff race.

Hendry was not about to part with two pitchers--say, Jon Lieber and either Carlos Zambrano and Juan Cruz--plus third baseman Bill Mueller for a player who could not help the Cubs reach the playoffs and then could be lost to free agency.

Plus they would have had to assume the remaining $2.8 million on Rolen's contract.

"It didn't get that close in any way, shape or form," Hendry said of informal talks with Phillies GM Ed Wade. "We're so far back [in the race] and we would have had to give up a big amount of talent. Then you take the chance of not re-signing him."

The Rolen trade not only strengthens the Cardinals, the Cubs' top rival, it also could limit the Cubs' options at third base next season. Rolen is expected to sign a long-term deal with St. Louis.

The Cubs could re-sign Mueller, who is being paid $3.45 million this season. Or they could save money by trying Mark Bellhorn at third.

Double-A West Tenn prospect David Kelton hasn't played third base since early in the season. His throwing woes have pushed him to first base, but the Cubs plan to have him try third again in winter ball.

Hendry's best option might be to use the Cubs' young pitchers to make a deal for a third baseman at the winter meetings. One player to watch is Florida's Mike Lowell.